There’s something comforting about a warm, creamy pasta dish that feels like a warm hug. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this Seared Garlic Chicken with Creamy Cheddar Penne is sure to become a staple in your home. The best part? It’s easy to whip up and absolutely delicious!

Why You’ll Love Seared Garlic Chicken with Creamy Cheddar Penne

Fast
Easy
Giftable
Crowd-pleasing

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your dish:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender and juicy, perfect for searing.
2 tablespoons olive oil: For that lovely sear and flavor.
4 cloves garlic, minced: The star of the show, adding aromatic goodness.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing flavors.
8 ounces penne pasta: A classic shape that holds onto that creamy sauce.
1 cup heavy cream: Rich and luscious, it makes the sauce creamy.
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: For a cheesy, comforting finish.
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs: A hint of Italian flair.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and freshness.

How to Make Seared Garlic Chicken with Creamy Cheddar Penne

Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful dish together:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and sear for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
Meanwhile, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Once al dente, drain and set aside.
Add the heavy cream to the skillet with the garlic and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and dried Italian herbs until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combine the cooked penne pasta with the creamy cheddar sauce. Slice the seared chicken and place it on top of the pasta.
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your meal!

Substitutions & Additions

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some ideas:

Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs for a juicier bite.
Use whole wheat penne for a healthier option.
Add veggies like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for a nutritional boost.
Try different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a flavor twist.

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips that I’ve learned along the way:

Don’t skip searing the chicken; it adds delicious flavor!
Keep an eye on the garlic; it can burn quickly and turn bitter.
Prep the ingredients beforehand to make the cooking process smoother.

How to Store Seared Garlic Chicken with Creamy Cheddar Penne

If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prep the chicken and sauce in advance, then combine everything just before serving.

Is this dish suitable for freezing? While it can be frozen, the texture of the pasta may change when reheated, so I recommend enjoying it fresh if possible.

What can I serve with this dish? A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this creamy pasta!

This Seared Garlic Chicken with Creamy Cheddar Penne is a delightful dish that you will love. For more delicious recipes, check out this breakfast burrito or these garlic bread sloppy joes for treats you will love!

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